themselves to dress him, and brought him another habit, as rich and magnificent as that worn the day before. He then ordered one of the horses to be got ready, mounted him, and went in the midst of a large troop of slaves to the sultan to entreat him to take a repast in the new palace, attended by his grand vizier and all the lords of his court. The sultan consented with pleasure, rose up immediately, and preceded by all the great lords of his court, accompanied Aladdin.
The nearer the sultan approached Aladdin’s palace, the more he was struck with its beauty; but when he entered it, came into the hall, and saw the windows, enriched with diamonds, rubies, emeralds, all large perfect stones, he was completely surprised, and said to his son-in-law, “This palace is one of the wonders of the world; for where besides shall we find walls built of massy gold and silver, and diamonds, rubies, and emeralds decorating the windows? But it amazes me that a hall of this magnificence should be left with one of its windows incomplete and unfinished.” “Sire,” answered Aladdin, “the omission was by design, since I wished that you should have the glory of finishing this hall.” “I take your intention kindly,” said the sultan, “and will give orders about it immediately.”
After the sultan had enjoyed the magnificent entertainment, provided for him and for his court by Aladdin, he was
187
